Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve in Nepal

Nepal is a beautiful country inhabiting an amazing array of Wildlife Reserves and National Parks hidden amongst the many majestic mountains of the Himalayan range. It is here that you will also find the only hunting reserve set aside by the Government of Nepal.

Unlike many countries that support "canned hunting" (defined as: The sport or practice of killing animals that have been bred in captivity for the sole purpose of trophy hunting by international tourists), the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve has set aside a dedicated area where only certain wild species are permitted to be culled, thus controlling the general population in the area. It is only in particular seasons that controlled hunting occurs through the year, thus requiring a game license. This can be obtained through the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation within the Kathmandu area. However, it must be remembered that there is a limited amount of hunting operations who are able to cater for such expeditions and so it is good to look into this beforehand.

Nonetheless, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is also a sanctuary to some of the rarest and most endangered mammals, such as the beautiful snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, red panda and the elegant Himalayan musk deer. Alongside this is an amazing array of rare bird species. In fact, Nepal holds some of the significant populations in the entire world, showcasing its natural riches.

The Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is set on 1,325 square kilometers of rolling terrain, lying on the Southern rise of the majestic Mount Dhaulangiri I, which stands over 8,000 meters in height, cutting into the Rukum, Myagdi and Baglung districts in the west of Nepal. As with most reserves it is not uncommon to find villagers co-inhabiting. In this particular area it is made up by two distinct groups that being people of Tibetan descent and hill tribes who supplement farming with animal and trade husbandry.

The reserve is characterized by a fusion of mixed hardwood forests which include fir, birch, rhododendron, hemlock, pine, juniper and spruce as well as one of the highest widespread populations of flora up to 36 species once again emphasizing Nepal’s natural riches.

Besides hunting, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is a striking destination for wildlife and bird enthusiasts alike who wish to visit this isolated area.